FBCD_FaithEssentials_June_FlipBook

Faith Essentials

Paul expressed the importance of thanksgiving repeatedly, penning, “Singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks for all the things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Ephesians 5:19,20; Philippians 4:6). Take a piece of paper and write down everything you can think of for which you are thankful. Include matters of eternal significance – such as salvation and a future home in heaven; as well as simple pleasures like singing birds, good food, and an open parking place. List trials, as well as victories, since they may prove to be more valuable in the long run. Keep this list handy, continuing to update it as God works in your life. Next comes the sometimes unpleasant but always necessary time of acknowledgment and confession. Just because we know Christ doesn’t mean we stop sinning. We all sin every day. The difference is the Holy Spirit inside us nudging our spirits, convicting us of that sin. Since transgressions separate us from and mar our relationship with God, we must acknowledge these sins before Him through prayer. As the Word says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1John 1:9). Take a few moments to meditate on these critical points related to confession. “IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS . . .”  Confession must first be to God, since all sin is ultimately against Him.  Confession is agreeing with God concerning the seriousness of our sin.

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